STAR TREK and MARVEL Took Over Day Three of Comic Con!

Jeri Jacquin

It was to be expected right? Hundreds and hundreds of fans waiting in line over a two day periods and for what you ask? Because both STAR TREK and MARVEL were in Hall H and they weren’t about to disappoint with a flimsy few minutes on stage. Nope, there were surprises to be seen and heard and I’m about to tell you everything I know.

Beginning with Enter the Star Trek Universe, CBS All Access is continuing to expand that universe. Star Trek Discovery takes the story 1,000 years into the future says showrunner Alex Kurtzman. The series stars Sonequa Martin-Green, Michelle Paradise, Heather Kadin and David Ajala. Production is currently ongoing in Iceland so there might be a bit of a wait for Season Three.

Star Trek: Picard brought its thrilling trailer to Hall H as Sir Patrick Stewart returns in his iconic role of Jean-Luc Picard. This being Stewarts first time at Comic Con, he seemed to be relishing every moment and enjoying the panel time. The story revolves around Picard realizing that he never has quite felt at home with his feet on Earth but then again we all could have guess that. We want him at the helm and engage!

Not enough Star Trek? Well, how about Star Trek: Short Treks which is a miniseries to keep your imagination in space where it belongs. There are characters from the original series that you might all remember and I’m keeping that bit of information to myself. No spoilers here! The show is also brought by CBS All Access.

The official HBO trailer for WESTWORLD 3 – The New World has dropped into Hall H and available for everyone. The world has changed and now Jonathan Nolan, Lisa Joy, Evan Rachel Wood, Thandie Newton, Ed Harris, Tessa Thompson, Aaron Paul, Jeffrey Wright and Luke Hemsworth have to find their way through it. It seems like fans have been waiting forever but now these characters find themselves in Nazi Europe but you’ll have to wait a while longer to know more.

Project Blue Book from the History Channel brings characters Hynek and Quinn dealing with 1947 and Roswell, New Mexico. The show has just started production and will return later this year. If you haven’t seen season one, I have to ask you…why not? The Good Place brought a bit of a downer to attendees when executive producer Michael Schur announced that it would be the final season for the show. Telling everyone the final script was complete, the statement was met with a loud awwww-ing and man it was brutal to hear.

The Expanse is a show I have been watching from the very beginning. Throwing out props to Amazon for giving it a new home so we can see how the next chapter of this saga plays out. Due to return in December, it’s plenty of time to watch the first three seasons since I have a feeling things are going to get very intense.

TBS is about to take on one of my favorite films by putting it into a series with Snowpiercer. If you have an opportunity to see the film prior to the show beginning, do so. You will get a feel for the post-apocalyptic train ride that has a twisted structure that contains human beings trying to survive a caste system. What does everyone want? They want what is in first class!

Women Who Kick Ass comes to Hall H with ladies Shohreh Aghdashloo from The Expanse, Freema Agyeman from Doctor Who, Betty Gilpin from Glow, Ruby Rose from Batwoman and Cobie Smulders from the new series Slumptown.

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! will air on The Travel Channel hosted by The Evil Dead star Bruce Campbell. This is a perfect outlet for the star we all love for being…well…different!

Finally, what a packed Hall H has been waiting for. The Russo Bros. mix it up with the audience to get things started and Jessica Chobot introduces Kevin Feige. He thanks fans for what the Marvel Universe has become (and we thank him as well). He quickly moves on to The Eternals and director Chloe Zao along with cast Richard Madden, Jumail Najiani, Lauren Ridloff, Bryan Henry, Salma Hayak, Liam McHugh, Don Lee and Angelina Jolie. Ms. Jolie seemed beside herself with smiles at being part of the panel.

Falcon and the Winter Soldier brings Sebastian Stan and Anthony Mackie to panel. Baron Zemo aka Daniel Bruhl is back and purple once again making a promise with, “Gentlemen, I’ll be seeing you very soon”. It didn’t sound promising for either the Falcon or the Winter Soldier!

Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings has a release date of 2-2021 with Tony Leung as The Mandarin. Feige announced that Simu Liu has been cast in the title role of Shang-Chi. Dr. Strange in the Multiverse of Madness is a series that Feige also says “ties directly into the world of Dr. Strange” and that sends the audience into a happy place. Directed by Scott Derrickson, the series stars Benedict Cumberbatch and Elizabeth Olsen.

Speaking of Olsen, WandaVision is an original series coming to the new streaming service Disney+. The show also stars Paul Bettany and Teyonah Parris and due out in the spring of 2021.

My dream has come true! Loki from Marvel Studios is also coming to Disney+ and Tom Hiddleston is reprising his role. Don’t ruin my day by trying to talk me out of the clouds, it isn’t possible. I am on a full lady-high right now and don’t expect to come down until the series airs, and maybe not even then.

Taika Waititi returns to direct Thor: Love and Thunder with Chris Hemsworth, Tessa Thompson and Natalie Portman and is due in theatres November of 2021. Be prepared when a lady Thor comes into the picture!

Black Widow is slated for May of 2020 with Cate Shortland as director and the return of Scarlett Johansson. The film also stars David Harbour, Florence Pugh and Rachel Weisz. It will be nice to see the back story of this iconic Marvel character before things got dicey in the last two Avengers films.

Finally, fans were so surprised to learn that Blade is being brought back to life. The announcement was made that Mahershala Ali would be taking over the role and is now part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

That is a lot to take in isn’t it? I can tell you that everyone in Hall H was exhausted by the end of the panel. It is another phase for Marvel and it is going to keep fans happy for many, many years to come.

It is hard to believe but we are one day away from putting San Diego Comic Con International 2019 into the books. Outside the Convention Center is a very fun atmosphere as everyone is finding their favorite places to visit only to discover that every place is a favorite place.

Tomorrow gets here quick so rest up and let’s make a final run on the last day!

San Diego Comic Con International Zombies its Day Two

Jeri Jacquin

It is day two and what a day it’s been! There is no doubt it is Friday as the crowds are getting bigger and trust when I say that Saturday is going to be a day to bring plenty of patience and humor.

Today I was in Hall H and there was more than enough to keep everyone’s eyes and ears happy. Beginning with Writing Avengers: Endgame moderator Jeff Goldsmith talks to screenwriters/producers Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely about the process of creating an immersive story. From ideas onto storyboards to making sure timelines mash up, it was a conversation that was enlightening and has everyone scratching their heads with more ways to expand the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

That wasn’t the end of it as the Russo Brothers, Joe and Anthony, took the stage as moderator Steven Weintraub broken down the years and films the two creative minds have brought to screen. Talking about the stories and showing their own boards, the audience was keen to know if they would take on the SECRET WARS storyline but no straight answer was given. The fun came when the cast ‘phoned in’ their questions and Paul Rudd walked away with the laughs. When Robert Downey, Jr. took to the screen the entire audience just about lost it seeing their one and only Iron Man again.

The morning was about to be taken over by zombies and the crowd couldn’t be happier. The moderator and host of the AMC after show The Talking Dead, the audience was thrilled at the return of Chris Hardwick to the stage for AMC’s Fear the Walking Dead. Along with Scot M. Gimple was Andrew Chambliss, Ian Goldberg, Robert Kirkman, Gale Anne Hurd, Dave Alpert and Greg Nicotero and new comer Michael Satrazemis. They all spoke on the apocalyptic universe and where the show might be headed.

After, the cast took to the stage including Lennie James, Alycia Debnam-Carey, Maggie Grace, Colman Domingo, Danay Garcia, Austin Amelio, Alexa Nisenson, Karen David, Jenna Elfman and Ruben Blades telling their stories of their characters arc and the antics that can be found on the set. The audience was treated to a preview of Sunday’s mid-season finale with the announcement of its return to finish the season on 8/11/10. Also a teaser from Gimple about a third show being planned for this universe coming soon.

On the heels of one group of zombie survivors comes the next panel for AMC’s first hit show The Walking Dead. Taking the stage first to moderate again was Chris Hardwick along with Scott M. Gimple, Angela Kang, Gale Anne Hurd, Dave Alpert and Greg Nicotero. So much has changed with Daryl, Michonne, Carol and the gang with the Whisperers wreaking havoc which, we are told, will continue.

Then the cast including Norman Reedus, Danai Gurira, Melissa McBride, Jeffrey Dean Morgan, Avil Nash, Ryan Hurst, Nadia Hilker, Eleanor Matsuura, Cailey Fleming and a video message from Samantha Morton all take a seat. The hardest part of the panel was hearing it confirmed that Danai Gurira who plays Michonne will not be returning after the 10^th season is finished airing. The crowd was not happy and Danai herself became emotional. To try and make it better, the crowd gave her a standing thunderous applause because, after all, once a part of TWD – always a part.

The audience had a chance to ask their questions and without giving anything away, each cast member used humor to make sure they didn’t. This was the first Comic Con for Cailey Fleming who plays Rick Grimes’ daughter Judith and she immediately enchanted the audience. At one point an attendee asked Norman Reedus if he’d consider being the leader to all those who will be invading Area 51. Once filled in on what that was all about, his reply was, “yea, sure” and the audience went wild. Of course if that were to happen I’d be there!

Netflix has a new original series coming to their programming with The Witcher starring Superman himself Henry Cavill. Of course in his role as Geralt of Rivia, he looks more like Legolas from LORD OF THE RINGS. As awesome as Legolas is, I have a sneaky suspicion that Geralt, or the White Wolf, might have a thing or two on the bow carrying elf. He is a wanderer who doesn’t realize destiny has another fate for him that involve a sorceress and a princess. The series also stars Freya Allan, Jodhi May, MyAnna Buring, Anya Chalotra, Hlynur Haraldsson, Millie Brady and I can’t wait to see it.

Game of Thrones made its final appearance in Hall H and fans had the opportunity to talk out all their feelings regarding the ending of this HBO mega hit series. Based on the George R.R. Martin books A Song of Ice and Fire, fans have embraced the characters and, I feel, needed the closure. The panel included Jacob Anderson, John Bradley, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, Liam Cunningham, Conleth Hill, Maisie Williams, Isacc Wright and Miguel Sapochnik.

Pennyworth is a new cable series that takes viewers back in time when Alfred Pennyworth, Batman’s serious awesome butler, was a younger man. It is 1960s London and Pennyworth is a former British SAS Soldier who begins working with Thomas Wayne. The cast includes Jack Bannon as Alfred, Ben Aldridge as Thomas Wayne in this DC series created by Bob Kane and Bill Finger. The show can be found on EPIX beginning July 28^th.

Amazon Prime is also bringing something unique and very mysterious with their new series Carnival Row. Orlando Bloom stars in this Victorian fantasy world of mythological creatures and learning how to live with humans. Cara Delevingne stars as the refugee fairy who has a thing for Bloom’s character Rycroft Philostrate (and lets be honest, who wouldn’t?!) There is also a screening of Carnival Row on Saturday that is going to give attendees a sneak peak at what’s to come.

Comic Con wouldn’t be, well, Comic Con without the FX series Archer having its moment in the sun. The animated series is one of my absolute guilty pleasures with the sarcasm of Archer and Lana Kane, Archer’s mother Mallory and the rest of the crew that makes this show hilarious. The panel included H. Jon Benjamin, Aisha Tyler, Jessica Walter, Chris Parnell, Judy Greer, Amber Nash and Lucky Yates. The new season is coming soon and it is in space aboard the M/S Seamus. Of course there will be aliens, pirates and the works because Archer needs something to keep his wit razor sharp!

Of course, at San Diego Comic Con International, the nighttime comes alive even more than usual. The outside events are in full swing and parties can be found everywhere for the enjoyment of attendees and non-badge holders alike. It is such a great time to meet up with friends and walk all around to just have a little fun.

Saturday promises to be once again filled with activities, shopping and panel discussions. It also means that the Marvel panel might just have a little something in store for those who have spent days waiting in line.

We will be there to cover it all!

The First Day of SDCC is in the Hands of the Terminator

Jeri Jacquin

The first day of San Diego Comic Con International is always filled with excitement and anticipation. Of course every day is exciting but the first day gets attendees a glimpse of how extensive it all is both inside and outside the Civic Center downtown.

At the Indigo Room at the Hilton Bayfront, the morning began with a panel discussion and Unreal Gaming headed by Sinclair Fleming. The ideas and magic of what we see on the screen is discussed along with what is to come in the future. The technology that is used in almost device we use today comes from the creativity of those who are bold enough to continue learning.

SyFy brings their cast for a look at the next season of their hit series Van Helsing. Moderated by Bevin from the magazine Den of Geeks, the cast includes Kelly Overton, Jonathan Scarfe, Christopher Hyerdahl, Neal McConough, Jennifer Cheon Garcia, Tricia Helfer, Aleks Paunovic, Keeya King and Nicole Munoz. Showrunner Jonathan Walker also tried to keep secrets together and executive producers Chad Oakes and Michael Frislev talking about their excellent cast. Also, a teaser about what is to come and let me tell you – it’s pretty wild!

Netflix brought their own original series with The Order along with the cast. Their first time at Comic Con with Jake Manley, Sarah Grey, Adam DiMarco, Devery Jacobs, Thomas Elms, Katharine Isabelle, creator Dennis Heaton, writer Shelley Eriksen and returning to the state is executive producers Chad Oakes and Michael Frislev. From the moment they stepped on stage it became clear that these castmates have created their own ‘family’. Their sparring and stories are funny and bring a heart to an otherwise crazy series. The attendees were given a treat of a script reading and it was riveting to watch the actors right in front of us.

From Amazon Prime and creators Kate Purdy and Raphael Bob-Waksberg is a series that is bound to capture attention with Undone. Rosa Salazar plays Alma, a young girl dealing with the mystery of her father’s death. After an accident brings visions that bring her the ability to deal with time and space. It becomes a difficult time for the young girl as it begins to show a strain in the way she handles the people in her life.

Stumptown is a new drama based on a graphic novel by Jason Richman as Cobie Smulders plays Dex Parios, ex-military turned P.I. has a lot going on in her life. All of it gives her an edge that isn’t always popular with local law enforcement. Cast members Jake Johnson, Michael Ealy, Camryn Manheim, Tantoo Cardinal, Cole Sibus and Adrian Martinez join on stage to discuss what viewers can expect from this ABC show.

Ballroom 20 had its share of cool offerings with the Exclusive Screening of Evil that takes a closer look at the mystery of where evil comes from and can be found on CBS this fall. The CW this fall will bring Nancy Drew who is a young detective living in Horseshoe Bay and after a bit of time away from detecting, finds herself back in it when a local crime needs her expertise.

Arnold Schwarzenegger brings the hall down when he takes the stage to talk about the upcoming film TERMINATOR: Dark Fate. Of course the audience is completely under his spell along with the cast and the return of Sarah Connor played by Linda Hamilton That isn’t the end of the surprises when James Cameron makes his big screen appearance with a little more information about the film and a certain kid who has grown up in the Terminator world – John Connor.

Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. gets its first inside look at Hall H along with cast including Clark Gregg, Ming-Na Wen, Chloe Bennet, Elizabeth Henstridge, Iain De Caestecker, Henry Simmons, Natalia Cordova-Buckley and Jeff Ward. Joining in on the conversation is executive producer Maurissa Tancharoen, Jed Whedon, Jeff Bell and Jeph Loeb. The discussion is lively and the director of where the show will be going is touched upon and, what makes me always smile, is the actors trying not to give to much away. The series airs on Fridays from ABC.

That’s enough of what is going on indoors, let’s visit the outdoors because there is something for everyone. In the parking lot across from Petco Park is family fun provided by the Twilight Zone and Sponge Bob just to start. Pepsi has brought an amazingly huge unicorn to give you direction along with a cool sip of their product, a ball pit for the kids and a few photo opps as well.

Spongebob Squarepants has a cool set up with bubbles and sunglasses for all. Of course the awesome Spongebob car is something to sit in and behold. There is food and fun for the whole family and I can almost predict that this weekend, this family spot is going to be the place to hang out.

FX is getting ready with their display of fun from It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia to the next installment of American Horror Story. Across from the Convention Center is the set up for Detective Pikachu, Shazam!, Brooklyn Nine-Nine and, of course, The Walking Dead. Now you know I’m not about to miss that. In between all of these set ups is so much more to explore and most of it doesn’t require a SDCC badge! That’s the best part of all!

So with Day Two only a few hours away, I’m charging up all my electronics! Keep up with me if you dare!

San Diego COMIC CON International Preview Night Begins Tonight

Jeri Jacquin

We are here…again…for San Diego ComicCon International 2019 and it is even more spectacular as this year celebrates the 50^th ComicCon with everything we love about it.

Preview Night is just the beginning and there is so much to see. I personally have to make my way to Funko because if I don’t get an IT Funko then I might have to throw myself down on the floor and throw a fit. Just kidding (maybe not)!

Of course DC and Warner Brothers will be there to give out a little swag for those brave enough to handle the crowds who also want their swag. Marvel and Star Wars are also big places to visit and see what goodies have been brought along with the amazing set ups.

Netflix is here this year and with all the fantastic programming they have you can be sure they will add to the very cool bags that are being offered this year to attendees. Cartoon Network, Comedy Central, FX, Hulu, ABC, Nickelodeon, WETA, STARZ and BBC America top off returnees with looks at their new shows coming.

For fans of all things comics, the author and artist section is going to need some time so wear comfy shoes. There is so much these talented people have to offer that it is worth taking the time to chat and share with them about their work.

Companies such as Hasbro, Konami, CAPCOM and others return to bring the characters and products that people will stand in line for. This is serious business for many of the attendees as much of the items are limited to Comic Con so make sure you are prepared.

But that isn’t all that happens on Preview Night! In Ballroom 20 there is a World Premier Screening of Batwoman and the new series Pennyworth along with a Sneak Peek Screening of The 100 and Rooster Teeth.

In the Central Library Downtown in the Shirley Event Suite 9^th Floor there is a Teaching with Comics: An Interactive Workshop for Educators. At the Marriott Grand Ballroom 4, there is the Anime of Hozuki’s Coolheadedness, Outlaw Star, ARGEVOLLEN, Twin Star Exorcist, Dimension W, The Dirty Pair OVA, The Third: The Girl with the Blue Eye, Rocket Girls, Fate/Kaleid Liner Prisma Illya 2 Wei, Spice and Wolf and Armored Trooper VOTOMS being shown.

There are also Games at the Convention Center Mezzanine from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m.

The Films being shown at the Marriott Grand Room 5 are THE ADVETNURES OF CAPTAIN MARVEL, CAPTAIN MARVEL, SHAZAM! And THE ADVENTURES OF CAPTAIN MARVEL.

Let’s not forget that outside, all around the convention center there are so many events happening that don’t even require a Comic Con badge. It is a fantastic way for people to be able to experience a bit of everything and have a little family fun.

That’s what has made San Diego Comic Con International so amazing over the years. Spilling over into the community and bringing an almost carnival like atmosphere to the city means everyone gets to have a good time this summer.

So, I am covering everything that I can to share and trust me when I say it would be wonderful to have an army to cover it all. As I say every year – bring plenty of water, dress accordingly and wear the most comfortable shoes you have. This is a four day event and there isn’t a minute to be wasted.

Follow me on Facebook at MovieMaven on Twitter at @jerijacquin and Instagram at @brillyantone if you want real time goodies!

Off we go!

BREAKTHROUGH Inspires Faith

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Bluray/DVD and Digital from director Roxann Dawson and 20^th Century Fox Home Entertainment is a true story about faith in family that has a BREAKTHROUGH.

The Smith family is going through a difficult time as 14-year-old John (Marcel Ruiz) is struggling. Mom Joyce (Chrissy Metz) and Dad Brian (Josh Lucas) are divided on how to handle it. Mom wants to find answers and Dad wants to give John his space. Strong in their faith, they attend church where Pastor Jason (Topher Grace) is also struggling as his congregation isn’t quite sure how to handle a progressive leader.

All of that seems ridiculous when the real struggle of life happens for John. Having a day with his friends, they slide around on Lake Saint Louis even after being warned from a bystander that it might not be such a great idea. In a sudden movement, the ice gives way and all three boys find themselves in the ice waters.

Two boys manage to stay above water but John can not hold on and begins to sink. Paramedics and law enforcement arrive as Tommy Shine (Mike Colter) jumps in the water to find John. After a few moments the young boy is retrieved and off to the hospital where Dr. Sutterer (Sam Trammell) tries everything he knows to bring the boy back.

Joyce has minutes to watch her sons heart start beating again as he is transferred to a hospital where specialist Doctor Garrett (Dennis Haysbert) takes over. Joyce makes it very clear that he is to do everything to save her son. Brian can not even bare to see his son and waits with family and friends who begin a firestorm of prayer.

The power of love can make believers of us all.

Metz as Joyce is a strong woman who becomes a fierce mother. She demands positivity from everyone around John and when fear comes into play it can seem harsh. Personally I don’t think she was as I would do anything for my kids. That being said it is during John’s time in the hospital that change occurs in many people and Metz’s character is the main focus of that change. Lucas as Brian is a little disconcerting in many ways but we all handle stress differently. It is what happens in the end that will define this character.

Ruiz as John is struggling as any teenager would be trying to find his place in a world that doesn’t seem to quite fit. Colter as Tommy is a man who outwardly claims to not believe yet wants to understand what really happened out on the lake that tragic day.

Haysbert as Dr. Garrett answers the family’s questions according to what he sees on the charts. Only when he is challenges by Joyce does he begin to realize that sometimes it’s not what’s in the charts but what the patient is capable of on his own. Grace as Pastor Jason does what a pastor knows is right, being with the Smith family even if there is a wedge in the relationship with Joyce. Grace’s character has his own insecurities and Joyce doesn’t make it easy but his line after she mentions it’s not a good time is “I know, that’s why I’m here” is a smacker.

Other cast include Rebecca Staab as Cindy Reiger, Victor Zinck Jr. as Joe Morrow, Ali Skovbye as Emma, Lisa Durupt as Paula, Stephanie Czajkowski as Melissa, Nancy Sorel as Mrs. Abbott, Isaac Kragten as Josh and Chuck Shamata as the Fire Chief.

The Bluray and DVD include the Special Features A Tapestry of Miracles: Making BREAKTHROUGH, “Carry My Soul” Phil Wickham Deleted Scene, Trapped in Icy Waters, Audio Commentary by DeVon Franklin and Roxann Dawson and Gallery.

Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment brings award-winning global product and new entertainment to DVD, Bluray, and Digital HD. There amazing collection offers fans an opportunity to expand their own home libraries with the best films. To discover what other titles they have please visit www.fox.com.

MOVIES ANYWHERE gives viewers the ability to download the Movies Anywhere App. With that you can view films by downloading or streaming to your favorite device using a Digital Code. For more information on Movies Anywhere please visit www.MoviesAnywhere.com.

BREAKTHROUGH is based on a true story of the Smith family and their struggle with family, faith and individual self doubts. Falling through the ice, it is over an hour later before the hospital can get a heart beat. John says of his ordeal, “When I fell through the ice I felt cold, the shock. I remembered my life flashing through my eyes and my family. Sixteen days later I walked out of the hospital. I had physical therapy but only for a bit of problems with my wrist. God still does the impossible!”

The film is a story of family, faith, community and those who stood by the Smith family even if they didn’t quite understand how it all happened and learned what a miracle looks like in the face of John.

In the end – it’s all about divine intervention!

THE LION KING Comes Alive

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from director Jon Favreau and Disney is the 1994 iconic animated story now come to life with THE LION KING.

In case you come from another solar system I’ll give the story a run down. There is a young cub named Simba (Donald Glover) who is born a prince. Father King Mufasa (James Earl Jones) tries to teach his young son what it is to be a king. He is also learning side lessons from his jealous Uncle Scar (Chitwetel Ejiofor) that get him into a few scrapes.

Along with his best friend Nala, the two explore much to the fright of Mufasa, even if the royal bird Zazu (John Oliver) can’t keep up. Scar gets an idea enlisting the help of the hyenas and their leader Shenzi (Florence Kasumba) to take what he thinks is his.

Simba is caught up in a stampede that brings death and sadness to the pride and the young prince decides to run. He walks away and meets meerkat Timon (Billy Eichner) and faithful companion Pumbaa (Seth Rogen) who embrace Simba as one of their own.

In the meantime Scar is destroying the valley and Nala (Beyonce) knows it is time to get help. What she doesn’t plan on is running into Simba (Donald Glover) who is now fully grown. Explaining what has happened, Simba meets Rafiki (John Kani) who shows him why it is important to remember who he is and what it means to be a king.

Glover as Simba is a little less animated vocally than I would have expected. The younger cub prince was delightful and brought a bit of playfulness that made the little furry growler even cuter. Beyonce as Nala stayed in her lane so to speak meaning I had thought she would have song-wise taken over but instead they kept it easy and lovely.

Several characters that I enjoyed so much are Oliver as Zazu making me laugh several times with his antics, Kasumba as Shenzi with a tad less humor than her 1994 Goldberg counterpart but still very good and Ejiofor getting a chance to be the devious Uncle Scar.

Eichner and Rogen got all the silliness that made the animated version so much fun. I giggled so much as the antics of Simba’s smaller friends. It must be said that my four year old granddaughter couldn’t stop smiling when these two were on the screen.

Finally, James Earl Jones is the one and only Mufasa and having him once again accept the mantel of King was a wise choice. He is Mufasa and his presence at the beginning and at the most important point of the film’s emotion is something only his voice could capture. It also soothes the ruffled feathers of those not happy with Disney and its live action choices as of late.

Other cast include Keegan-Michael Key as Kamari, Eric Andre as Azizi, JD McCrary as Young Simba, Shahadi Wright Joseph as Young Nala and Alfre Woodard as Sarabi.

Now, let me get this out of the way – do I think THE LION KING needed to have a live-action version? Nope. Am I a fan of live-action films? Not really. I just think it’s a huge waste of money when we could easily enjoy the animated versions of stories on the big screen and my family would love it. Plus, after seeing the trailer for MULAN and the latest LITTLE MERMAID ruckus – I’m still not a fan.

THAT being said, I can’t fault THE LION KING at all. From the moment the screen is lit up with a beautiful sunrise and music that continues to be recognized with The Circle of Life and I Just Can’t Wait to be King, this is absolutely how it’s done folks!

Favreau should be applauded on several fronts – first of all he stayed ever faithful keeping to the original 1994 story that has become so iconic and also allowed the songs to once again bring joy. I saw this on the faces of not just the children at the screening but the adults as well. Oh trust me when I say I caught a woman six seats down singing along to Hakuna Matata and thrilled to be doing it.

The cinematography in the live-action is colorful and lively to the point that it was easy to forget that these lions, hyenas, birds, and the rest weren’t actually real. From the look of joy in Rafiki’s eyes to the sadness in Simba’s eyes, everything that needed to be related emotionally is there. The humor is wonderful in the film and there is a moment between Timon and Pumbaa that gives a nod to a beast of another kind so listen for it.

In the end – the King has returned!

STRANGER THINGS Season 3 Brings More Frights in Friendship

 Jeri Jacquin

Currently on Netflix with its continuing story is the highly successful and long awaited STRANGER THINGS Season 3.

It is 1985 and Hawkins has fallen to shopping malls causing the shops in town to begin closing. The Starcourt Mall is now the hangout for everyone who wants to see and be seen. Mike (Finn Wolfhard) and Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown) aren’t seen there much because they’ve been spending quality time together much to the dismay of El’s guardian Officer Hopper (David Harbour).

Looking for parental tips, Hopper turns to Joyce (Winona Ryder) who is coming to terms with her choice to move away from Hawkins. That doesn’t give Hopper much time to deal with his feelings about anything. The rest of the gang - Will (Noah Schnapp), Lucas (Caleb McLaughlin) and Max (Sade Sink) welcome Dustin (Gaten Matarazzo) back from science camp.

At the nearby steel mill, something wicked this way comes and Mike is feeling it on the back of his neck. The power goes out and a weird creature emerges from the darkness. Max’s brother Billy (Dacre Montgomery) is on his way for a rendezvous when his car is struck by an invisible force and without warning he is dragged into the Upside Down.

The tips Joyce gave to Hopper about Mike and El didn’t work out so well and Mike now fears to be around El. She doesn’t understand it but Max shows her the fun side of life with a trip to the Starcourt Mall and another way for El to use her powers. At the local paper, Nancy (Natalia Dyer) gets Jonathan (Charlie Heaton) to help her investigate a local woman who is having a weird rat problem.

Dustin is still weirding out by the hilltop transmission that sounds like Russian and convinces Steve (Joe Keery) to help figure it out. What they both don’t expect is that Robin (Maya Hawke) who works with Steve is more than happy to lend her language ear to the problem at hand.

Discovering the joys of the mall, El and Max decide to spy on the guys again with powers but Eleven only discovers that Billy may be responsible for a missing lifeguard. Billy is changing and he can’t explain why he is making dangerous choices. Hopper finally asks Joyce on a date but she loses track of time when her refrigerator magnets lose their magnetism.

Dustin, Steve and Robin make a chilling discovery when they see Russians moving shipments of mysterious crates down into the mall. Nothing is going to stop these three from uncovering what is going on below their town and they find help from the very smart and no-nonsense Erica (Priah Ferguson).

What they don’t know is that Joyce and Hopper have gone to high school teacher Murray Bauman (Brett Gelman) for answers about the magnets. It leads them back to the place they didn’t want to ever go again. That’s when they take Russian scientist Dr. Alexi (Alec Utgoff) sort of hostage to get answers as to what is happening but they are being chased mercilessly.

Nancy and Jonathan are still trying to discover what has happened to the source of their story. Once at the hospital, the two are also attacked by something, well, gooey that comes together to create an insanely large beast! Still below the mall, Steve and Robin are interrogated by Russians but Dustin and Erica save the date.

Now above ground, they all manage to come together to put the pieces of the monster puzzle together. El discovers from Billy the exact location of the beast and now a plan is formed as the gang handles the food court, Dustin handles the communications while Joyce and Hopper take on the reason for all of this happening again.

What the Russians and the monster don’t realize is that this group isn’t afraid of taking hard knocks and they have El on their side!

Brown as Eleven is growing up so fast and under the protection of her guardian and new boyfriend. Her world is still relatively small until Max shows her what she’s been missing. Of course that doesn’t last long but Brown has made the character of Eleven her very own and I love when she embraces her powers.

Wolfhard as Mike is smitten with Eleven and wants to spend every minute with her. Of course this doesn’t set well with his buddies, especially with Will. The other person it doesn’t make happy is Harbour as Officer Hopper. Trying to keep his ‘fatherly’ instincts in check, it is policeman instincts that take over and are a little harsher than poor Mike can take. Harbour is a little more intense this season but then again I think I would be too if the town I’m responsible for can’t catch a break.

Matarazzo as Dustin returns from science camp with a new outlook and a new love even though no one believes him. I adore Matarazzo because he is quick and hilarious all rolled into mischievous eyes and a quirky smile. Keery as Steve is thrilled to see Dustin as their friendship finds another level – that of Russians and being a hero to the town. Hawke as Robin is a breath of fresh air and don’t like the ice cream costume fool you. She’s smart as a whip and has a secret of her own.

Ryder as Joyce is still dealing with the death of Bob Newby and can’t quite catch on to Hopper’s intentions. The one thing she is sure of and that’s there is a creepy in Hawkins that she knows all too well. Ryder continues to give her character everything I remember about Moms of 1985. Schnapp as Will understands the creepy as it tends to bring goose bumps to the back of his neck. Of course he’d rather be playing D&D with his friends but they all have other plans.

McLaughlin as Lucas keeps busy with his relationship with Max but is also surprised when Ferguson as sister Erica joins the mix and madness. Ferguson as Erica is smart, doesn’t take any garbage from anyone and has a thing for ice cream which is a good thing for Steve, Robin and Dustin! Sink as Max is a fiery redhead who has the chance to solidify her friendship with El through fashion and boy advice. Montgomery as brother Billy gets the intensity award this season! He lives through the creature and throughout the season it just gets worse and worse. What a great role for the season!

Dyer as Nancy smells a story and nothing or no one is going to get in the way of her investigating.  Heaton as Jonathan doesn’t want to follow Dryer’s character but it all starts to make horrible sense and he can’t turn away.  Gelman as teacher Murray Bauman carries all the science and language and finds himself deep into all that is happening to the town, what’s under the town and the people in it.  Utgoff as Dr. Alexi thinks he holds all the cards so get the man a cherry slurpee and get on with it!

Other cast include Cara Buono as Karen Wheeler, Joe Chrest as Ted Wheeler, Andrey Ivchenko as Grigori, Cary Elwes as Mayor Kline, Peggy Miley as Mrs. Driscoll, Jake Busey as Bruce, Francesca Reale as Heather Holloway, Michael Park as Tom Holloway, Rob Morgan as Officer Powell, Arthur Darbinyan as Dr. Zharkov and Misha Kuznetsov as Ozerov.

The episodes include Chapter One: Suzie Do You Copy?, Chapter Two: The Mall Rats, Chapter Three: The Case of the Missing Lifeguard, Chapter Four: The Sauna Test, Chapter Five: The Flayed, Chapter Six: E. Pluribus Unum, Chapter Seven: The Bite and Chapter Eight: The Battle of Starcourt.

Season 3 of STRANGER THINGS has to be the most intense yet and with that being said, watch carefully the last few moments of the last episode. That means Season 4 has it’s work cut out yet I think the writers have accepted the challenge. As these characters have grown older, I can’t wait to see what they all do next in the season and in other things. Brown already tested her chops in the summer film GODZILLA.

What I love best about STRANGER THINGS is everything about the era the story takes place in. From the outrageous clothes, shoes and hair to the music that I still embrace and listen to today. Wrapping the story around the setting of an era we still hold dear is so much fun and brings back memories for some of a time when things like bike riding, malls, friendships and big hair were more important than cell phones and texting.

All of the friendships are so endearing and even though they are growing up (both on and off camera), it hasn’t changed this group in the way they interact with each other. It is totally believable that they would have been friends in 1985, played D&D, went to the mall, and watched early zombie movies – all of it. This cast, these actors and actresses have given us a treat and when the final season comes around (because we all know its going to happen), we will be all the sadder for it.

The downside of binge watching the whole season in one day is that the waiting begins for the next season. Of course it will drag its heels making us all crazy with wonder and craving the first trailer of what is to come. It’s a pretty cool torture and I don’t mind saying so.

In the end – friends like these are amazing and necessary!